tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-47900945020428495152024-03-13T00:49:33.331-07:00YOUR TRAVEL GUIDESMax Priestleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01796747184234443152noreply@blogger.comBlogger94125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4790094502042849515.post-25063071599223037312009-10-01T13:04:00.000-07:002009-10-01T13:33:01.234-07:00Navy Pier Ferris Wheel<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwR5b56BOK3Q9QbO25QYoStjLmvKsxu75XwUZPdx_x3pp7_k_FgJFj0s9DOK7710JyA4Xb1nw1RdmkuHRtRY2ee3pgcm5m_bfqx3sCL1mxRTBIVtMO-O1dvmFr2dsJk6__a8SImsmv6GwV/s1600-h/Navy_Pier_Ferris_wheel.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwR5b56BOK3Q9QbO25QYoStjLmvKsxu75XwUZPdx_x3pp7_k_FgJFj0s9DOK7710JyA4Xb1nw1RdmkuHRtRY2ee3pgcm5m_bfqx3sCL1mxRTBIVtMO-O1dvmFr2dsJk6__a8SImsmv6GwV/s320/Navy_Pier_Ferris_wheel.jpg" border="0" alt="Navy Pier Ferris Wheel"id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5387732216004699506" /></a><br /><span class="content">I was told that the Navy Pier Ferris Wheel is the world's first Ferris wheel and still the largest ever built. The ocasion was the World Columbian Exposition in 1893.<br /><br />It is 150 feet high (I was told by I friend of mine and I never bother to convert it in meters but it was HIGH) and gives a wonderful view to the lakefront and Lake Michigan.<br /><br />In the evening, thousands of lights illuminate the Ferris wheel's spokes.<br /><br />Working hours<br />Friday and Saturday: 10.00 h -24.00 h<br />Sunday to Tuersday: 10.00 h -22.00 h<br /><br />Price:<br />- Adults $4;<br />- Seniors $3.50;<br />- Children Free<br /><br /><br />The ferris wheel at Navy Pier is not the original one from the 1893 Columbian Exposition. The first Ferris wheel was much larger, and held over 2,160 people at one time. It was shipped to St. Louis for their fair and then dismantled in 1906. The Ferris wheel at Navy Pier only holds 240 people.<br /><br /><br /></span><div class="bottomTip"><li><b>Address:</b> 600, East Grand Avenue</li><li><b>Phone:</b> (312) 559-1212</li><li><b>Directions:</b> Navy Pier</li></div><br /><center><a target="_blank" href="http://www.hotelclub.net/enter.asp?id=66052&lc=&cr=&ru=searchresults%2Easp%3Fid%3D451"><font color="#F95C06"><h1>>BOOK HOTEL IN CHICAGO<</h1></font></a></center>Max Priestleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01796747184234443152noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4790094502042849515.post-62246986622390519782009-10-01T12:58:00.000-07:002009-10-01T13:03:31.371-07:00Willis Tower (Formerly Sears Tower): Sears Tower<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgquXXSTNhdVL315_fgJpFNfh9DJSNL4itDRV1of8hq809yQyIj48kWc4xy3P52aJDvakQzXh-YR4x4tHw0D4trt73aRc971sY3IuC_s5qcPYN2zwW1gAEb26ySBnL1_Zr_t2SZKTpAhIIC/s1600-h/willis-tower-590x829.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 228px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgquXXSTNhdVL315_fgJpFNfh9DJSNL4itDRV1of8hq809yQyIj48kWc4xy3P52aJDvakQzXh-YR4x4tHw0D4trt73aRc971sY3IuC_s5qcPYN2zwW1gAEb26ySBnL1_Zr_t2SZKTpAhIIC/s320/willis-tower-590x829.jpg" border="0" alt="Willis Tower"id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5387724479475502370" /></a><br /><span class="content">The 110 story Sears Tower was completed in 1974, &, at that time until 1996 was The World's Tallest Building. At the time it was built, it was the symbol of the vast merchandising empire of Sears, Roebuck & Company, based in Chicago since 1893! The company wanted a large building 6,500 employees. The idea was to consolidate offices that were scattered across the city.<br /><br />This site on South Wacker Drive was chosen because it was close to commuter railroad stations, the Elevated, the CTA bus routes, & all 3 expressways.<br /><br />The building was limited to 1,454 feet by the Federal Aviation Authority. Skidmore, Owings & Merrill Architectual Firm designed the building. They used a "bundled tube building procedure" because the perimeter columns brace the building against the wind. Their frames are interlocked, & each tube helps support its neighboring tube.<br /><br />Setbacks are used above the 50th floor which help to deflect the horizontal wind stress. These setbacks make for sound design & a powerful profile on Chicago's skyline. It can be seen for great distances.<br /><br />Originally, the large floors in the base building were occupied by Sears; the upper floors were (and still are) rented. This building uses high-speed, double-deck express elevators & sky lobbies for transfers to local elevators.<br /><br />Even though the building itself reflects sound engineering & sucessful architecture design, much criticism has been given concerning the granite-paved plaza surrounding the base of the tower. It's been called, "cheerless space, virtually devoid of seating or landscaping & generally devoid of people." Thus, 10 years after it was built, a 4-story, vaulted atrium was added to welcome arrivals on Wacker Drive. Also, a major entrance was added on Jackson Boulevard in a $25 million dollar renovation.<br /><br />The Skydeck occupies the 103rd floor. Its own entrance is on Jackson Boulevard.<br />More than 1.5 million visitors come each year!<br /><br /></span><b>Directions:</b> Corner of Jackson and Franklin. Entrance on Jackson Blvd. On the Loop, exit on Quincy station and walk west along Quincy Street.<br /><br /><center><a target="_blank" href="http://www.hotelclub.net/enter.asp?id=66052&lc=&cr=&ru=searchresults%2Easp%3Fid%3D451"><font color="#F95C06"><h1>>BOOK HOTEL IN CHICAGO<</h1></font></a></center>Max Priestleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01796747184234443152noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4790094502042849515.post-89101998474879078922009-10-01T12:54:00.000-07:002009-10-01T12:56:28.796-07:00River Thames: Take a boat trip<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhejPtg6aAv_xBwOpiCesPgcp42qOSjjhZO8JO31wIiyLFcId6z5gzzYSiZ3HB7mZS9TBfIwWWZ-paqvIp6GqHuImLy2a9ERRTaCMvEcJUB2GvQLCJdBIQkbbaOPUq7LUvS93QBhPsb7gXa/s1600-h/3178.jpeg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 239px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhejPtg6aAv_xBwOpiCesPgcp42qOSjjhZO8JO31wIiyLFcId6z5gzzYSiZ3HB7mZS9TBfIwWWZ-paqvIp6GqHuImLy2a9ERRTaCMvEcJUB2GvQLCJdBIQkbbaOPUq7LUvS93QBhPsb7gXa/s320/3178.jpeg" border="0" alt="River Thames"id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5387722754253058898" /></a><br /><span class="content">The best way to see London’s River Thames is possibly to take a boat trip along it. There are several companies offering these, all pretty similar. Trips depart from a number of central London locations along the river, including Charing Cross Pier (by Embankment tube station), Westminster Pier (by Westminster Bridge and the tube station of the same name), Tower Bridge and Waterloo on the south bank. Some trips are quite short and focus on the central stretch of the river, while others go as far west as Kew Gardens or as far east as the Thames Barrier.<br /><br />Depending on how long the trip you chose is, the sights you will see from the boat will probably include<br />~ London’s bridges, including the iconic Tower Bridge (not to be confused, as some tourists do, with the more mundane London Bridge)<br />~ great views of some of the most famous sights, such as Parliament, St Paul’s cathedral and the Tower of London<br />~ the restored warehouses in the eastern part of the city, now among the most sort-after London addresses for those that can afford to live here<br /><br />You’ll also get a good insight into all the activity on the river itself, with other sightseeing boats, river police, barges and privately-owned vessels etc. passing regularly. Commentary is usually provided in a number of languages, and refreshments available on board. In the evening some of the companies run dinner or disco cruises, and boats can also be hired out for groups to enjoy a private customised tour. The website below lists a large number of companies offering tours, but the best bet may be simply to turn up at one of the piers and see what’s on offer, though at busy times you may have to wait a while for a place on a tour.<br /><br />Fares vary depending on the route you choose but are typically between £6 and £10 for an adult, with discounts for children, senior citizens and family groups.<br /><br /></span><div class="bottomTip"><li><b>Directions:</b> You'll see tours offered from several piers on both banks of the Thames</li></div><br /><center><a target="_blank" href="http://www.hotelclub.net/enter.asp?id=66052&lc=&cr=USD&ru=searchresults%2Easp%3Fid%3D27"><font color="#F95C06"><h1>>BOOK HOTEL IN LONDON<</h1></font></a></center>Max Priestleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01796747184234443152noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4790094502042849515.post-46594241470449238572009-10-01T12:51:00.001-07:002009-10-01T12:52:13.345-07:00London Eye<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEjDtoZjALxpj9ob3KVwpR58dXXIZWsZz5eu0I_JTGfBviuJu19K-fD-5KcsGxh0oDT78a2uP2iwgGJJtfx6aVeHTrKKJNcx4GrrYtapkY6Bv6zrvU57JnBO9ulFEZU_GTeqi4nOF5mgaG/s1600-h/TopOfLondonEyeLookingEast.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEjDtoZjALxpj9ob3KVwpR58dXXIZWsZz5eu0I_JTGfBviuJu19K-fD-5KcsGxh0oDT78a2uP2iwgGJJtfx6aVeHTrKKJNcx4GrrYtapkY6Bv6zrvU57JnBO9ulFEZU_GTeqi4nOF5mgaG/s320/TopOfLondonEyeLookingEast.jpg" border="0" alt="London Eye"id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5387721648745292338" /></a><br /><span class="content">Once we arrived in downtown London at the Waterloo train station it was not difficult to figure out what our first attraction was going to be. As we stepped outside the station, we were greeted by this view of the now famous London Eye, officially called the Millenneum Wheel, standing on the south bank of the River Thames. This tallest in the world viewing wheel, at 135 m (443 ft) was built to celebrate the incoming 21st Century and officially opened on Dec. 31, 1999 (although it was not open to the public until March, 2000).<br /><br />A recent public opinion poll voted the Eye as the best tourist attraction in the world, and I would have to say that I really enjoyed our 'flight' on it! We soon hoofed it over to their very efficient ticketing area where the long lines moved along quickly as we picked up our 12.5 pound (US$22) tickets. The second photo shows a view of the Wheel hub and the rotating 'pods' directly above our heads as we then stood in a second line to actually board the Eye (the entire structure weighs 2100 tonnes).<br /><br /></span><div class="bottomTip"><li><b>Directions:</b> Waterloo tube, Lambeth area of London</li></div><br /><center><a target="_blank" href="http://www.hotelclub.net/enter.asp?id=66052&lc=&cr=USD&ru=searchresults%2Easp%3Fid%3D27"><font color="#F95C06"><h1>>BOOK HOTEL IN LONDON<</h1></font></a></center>Max Priestleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01796747184234443152noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4790094502042849515.post-26410316126022214762009-10-01T12:38:00.001-07:002009-10-01T12:48:33.991-07:00St Pauls Cathedral<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQDROSFmrKi5HvpE82UdjFWaPAZfXpQTm-xYL00mvgvNVtyny18IN_UdA-LA2XRFZDiP0gTXPvoU0EfKIExp-9201KouoSYQi9Ksbyh12Ei4RkvXkQCKzuiiuEeHmPRGbPkYX3YzX0q48R/s1600-h/462557671_2b12e655b4.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQDROSFmrKi5HvpE82UdjFWaPAZfXpQTm-xYL00mvgvNVtyny18IN_UdA-LA2XRFZDiP0gTXPvoU0EfKIExp-9201KouoSYQi9Ksbyh12Ei4RkvXkQCKzuiiuEeHmPRGbPkYX3YzX0q48R/s320/462557671_2b12e655b4.jpg" border="0" alt="St Pauls Cathedral"id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5387720799855123858" /></a><br /><span class="content">A church dedicated to St Paul has overlooked the City of London since 604AD. The current Cathedral, started in 1669, is the fourth and was built after a fire destroyed 4/5th of all of London in 1666, destroying 13,200 houses and 89 churches (including the St. Paul's Cathedral).<br /><br />St Paul’s has been the stage for many important events in English history such as the funerals of Lord Nelson, the Duke of Wellington and Sir Winston Churchill; Jubilee celebrations for Queen Victoria, King George V; peace services marking the end of the First and Second World Wars; the 100th birthday of Queen Elizabeth; the wedding of Charles to Lady; and the Golden Jubilee of the Queen.<br /><br />When you enter and see the dome from the inside it may look strange, it’s smaller and lower than you probably expected. Between the inner and outer domes is a brick cone, which supports the 850-ton lantern.<br /><br />Climb 259 spiral steps and check out the Whispering Gallery in the interior of the dome, it’s an acoustic marvel where even the faintest whisper can be heard clearly on the opposite side. Sit on one side, have someone sit on the opposite side, and whisper away. From there a second steep climb leads to the Stone Gallery, opening onto a panoramic view of London. Another 153 steps take you to the Inner Golden Gallery, situated at the top of the inner dome.<br /><br />After all those steps you are probably tired as heck and wondering why you even wanted to see the city from there. After the heart rate goes back to normal, snap a picture with you at the top. This will be a badge of honor and something to gloat about to friends who didn’t make it<br /><br />OPEN:<br />Cathedral Mon.-Sat. 8:30-4, closed occasionally for special services;<br /><br />Ambulatory, crypt, and gallery Mon.-Sat. 9-5:15. Shop and Crypt Café also Sun. 10:30-5<br /><br /></span><div class="bottomTip"><li><b>Phone:</b> 0 20 7236 4128</li><li><b>Directions:</b> St Pauls tube</li></div><br /><center><a target="_blank" href="http://www.hotelclub.net/enter.asp?id=66052&lc=&cr=USD&ru=searchresults%2Easp%3Fid%3D27"><font color="#F95C06"><h1>>BOOK HOTEL IN LONDON<</h1></font></a></center>Max Priestleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01796747184234443152noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4790094502042849515.post-69244588077040027482009-10-01T12:34:00.001-07:002009-10-01T12:35:40.224-07:00Westminster Abbey<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCmrGp-zyxsjSAaxawq_e_6bTx29WwJiEMT4DdXFw0a44U1Gkof-X1dOCTZ7tTcnm4Cmr9rnHLlAeEsYGJNzLxvy99FJWx-gOSjIvF53nFIcLF9J_Y5nDsj8RK-0Cx5fd_2dGREbbpooIN/s1600-h/westminster-abbey-1.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 297px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCmrGp-zyxsjSAaxawq_e_6bTx29WwJiEMT4DdXFw0a44U1Gkof-X1dOCTZ7tTcnm4Cmr9rnHLlAeEsYGJNzLxvy99FJWx-gOSjIvF53nFIcLF9J_Y5nDsj8RK-0Cx5fd_2dGREbbpooIN/s320/westminster-abbey-1.jpg" border="0" alt="Westminster Abbey"id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5387717371670620434" /></a><br /><span class="content">For almost one thousand years, Westminister Abbey has been the setting for much of London's ceremonies such as Royal Weddings, Coronations, and Funeral Services.<br /><br />I personally think that it is one of the grandest pieces of architecture in the capital. It's an awesome and vast place that gleams white and pink outside but seems darker inside.<br /><br />In addition, the Abbey is the parish church of the Royal Family, when in residence at Buckingham Palace. Thus, it is a Royal Peculiar (not under control of the Archbishop of Canterbury but under direct control of the Queen).<br />It is symbolically the entire nation's church and almost museum-like, considering the large amount of history associated with it.<br /><br />I especially enjoyed seeing Poet's Corner located in the south transept because it commemorates famous authors such as Shakespeare, Milton, Chaucer (also buried here), Shelley, Dickens, & Keats as well as many others.<br /><br />The Tomb of the Unknown Warrior of WWI resides here, a very poignant tomb despite its "ordinary" look.<br /><br />I remember seeing Elizabeth II's Coronation at Westminister Abbey via TV in 1953. As an adolescent, I was mystified by the grandeur. At that time, I gushed about its beauty; when I saw it 40 years later, I felt the same.<br /><br />Allow several hours & include seeing St. Margaret's Church & Jewel Tower.<br /><br />If you love architecture as I do, then make sure you don't miss a visit to the Abbey.<br /><br />Warning: no photographs inside!<br /><br />Free admittance<br /><br />Open: 9:00 am-3:45 pm, Mon-Friday<br /><br /></span><div class="bottomTip"><li><b>Phone:</b> 0 20 7654 4900</li><li><b>Directions:</b> St James's Park tube</li></div><br /><center><a target="_blank" href="http://www.hotelclub.net/enter.asp?id=66052&lc=&cr=USD&ru=searchresults%2Easp%3Fid%3D27"><font color="#F95C06"><h1>>BOOK HOTEL IN LONDON<</h1></font></a></center>Max Priestleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01796747184234443152noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4790094502042849515.post-41102747009763010762009-10-01T12:28:00.001-07:002009-10-01T12:29:19.698-07:00Trafalgar Square<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLUMMOjizvu6mhOg3_orE3vzc6nWPNr1UUnNVHSxUVMDuGkhCP1NHh6TCCg-hr9cweWZtQ7U25j5m2zlMkdrGyev_F7WlWkc3EyiPkZKTcx2icyQaPTQHyV2CnQ0wwzzoBqZAflDZucQme/s1600-h/trafalg+square.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLUMMOjizvu6mhOg3_orE3vzc6nWPNr1UUnNVHSxUVMDuGkhCP1NHh6TCCg-hr9cweWZtQ7U25j5m2zlMkdrGyev_F7WlWkc3EyiPkZKTcx2icyQaPTQHyV2CnQ0wwzzoBqZAflDZucQme/s320/trafalg+square.jpg" border="0" alt="Trafalgar Square"id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5387715775543987634" /></a><br /><span class="content">"England expects that every man will do his duty"<br /><br />Commemorating Nelson's great naval victory in 1805 over the combined Napoleonic fleets of France and Spain off the Spanish coast near Tarifa, close to Gibraltar.<br /><br />The outcome of this battle was supremacy of the British navy on the high seas for the next hundred years and the end of the threat of invasion from Napoleon, leading him to change his strategies and ultimately leading to his downfall...<br /><br />The battle also cost Britain her great hero of her time as Nelson was struck down by a musket ball, so a grateful nation named this London square after the battle and erected Nelson's Column in his honour...<br /><br />Trafalgar square is one of London's great squares, with its great column flanked by four fabulous Lions and two attractive fountains.<br /><br />It is a fantastic place to meet, being bounded by the National Gallery, St Martins, the South African and Canadian Embassies, the Admiralty Arch leading to Buckingham Place and Whitehall leading to Downing St and Westminster.<br /><br />Only last year the pedestrianisation of the north side of the square was completed, turning it into an oasis free of traffic with the new steps sweeping down from the National Gallery. Part of this new development was the installation of a Costa Coffee Cafe and free public toilets.<br /><br />The sheer size and grandeur of the square makes it a perfect venue for the many free entertainment events and demonstrations held here, it is also the location for quite a rowdy New Year's Eve celebration.<br /><br />During Christmas the Norwegians donate a huge Christmas tree to the UK for our actions in liberating Norway from the Germans in WWII and it is erected in the square.<br /><br />It is a beautiful square, probably the best in London and definitely worth a visit - in fact you will probably find yourself passing through here several times anyway if you're here for any length of time...<br /><br /></span><div class="bottomTip"><li><b>Directions:</b> Charing Cross or Leicester Square tubes, MAP</li> </div><br /><center><a target="_blank" href="http://www.hotelclub.net/enter.asp?id=66052&lc=&cr=USD&ru=searchresults%2Easp%3Fid%3D27"><font color="#F95C06"><h1>>BOOK HOTEL IN LONDON<</h1></font></a></center>Max Priestleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01796747184234443152noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4790094502042849515.post-14981098678951732472009-10-01T12:22:00.000-07:002009-10-01T12:25:08.359-07:00Tower Bridge<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqaZiYJkIP2VBbZmfgLl2s-2TmAZFxRsjYv-ju5FXZ_9EIFGmYmyte6qP7zIyb-Im7Yuo9PTNKOpT12XmayQF7IVjZpXgY3heo3byyVLO_0jIUNONi-w3dQ2hLi1omfMrfLqu69yml7XiU/s1600-h/tower-bridge-london-lntwrbr.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqaZiYJkIP2VBbZmfgLl2s-2TmAZFxRsjYv-ju5FXZ_9EIFGmYmyte6qP7zIyb-Im7Yuo9PTNKOpT12XmayQF7IVjZpXgY3heo3byyVLO_0jIUNONi-w3dQ2hLi1omfMrfLqu69yml7XiU/s320/tower-bridge-london-lntwrbr.jpg" border="0" alt="Tower Bridge"id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5387714660535689650" /></a><br /><span class="content">The Tower Bridge was built to deal with increased traffic in the east end of London during the late 1800s, with the bridge construction lasting from 1886 to 1893. Unlike the other city bridges further upsteam on the River Thames, this bridge had to be designed to allow shipping traffic to pass to the busy Port of London area upstream of the proposed location.<br /><br />The overall length of the bridge is 800-ft and two distinctive 65-m (213-ft) towers support a 200-ft span between them which can open in the middle and each be tilted upward within a few minutes to let ship traffic pass. The towers also house the equipment needed to raise the ship span and they provide support for the suspension spans which make up the remainder of the bridge. One of the most beautiful bridges in the world with its Victorian Gothic style, the towers have steel skeletons and are covered with granite from Cornwall and limestone trim from Dorset.<br /><br />Another unique feature of the bridge is an elevated walkway (143-ft above the Thames) which allows unimpeded pedestrian traffic, even when the lower part of the bridge is raised for shipping. However, this upper level soon became an unsavoury hangout for pick-pockets and prostitutes as well as a site of frequent suicides, resulting in it's closure in 1910. It was still closed when I visited in 1979 but soon afterward, the walkway was glassed-in and it was re-opened to pedestrians in 1982. The second photo shows the view toward the Tower of London from the lower level of the bridge.<br /><br /></span><div class="bottomTip"><li><b>Phone:</b> 0 20 7626 3065</li><li><b>Directions:</b> Tower Hill or London Bridge tubes</li></div><br /><center><a target="_blank" href="http://www.hotelclub.net/enter.asp?id=66052&lc=&cr=USD&ru=searchresults%2Easp%3Fid%3D27"><font color="#F95C06"><h1>>BOOK HOTEL IN LONDON<</h1></font></a></center>Max Priestleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01796747184234443152noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4790094502042849515.post-56329943184972691422009-10-01T12:18:00.001-07:002009-10-01T12:20:28.804-07:00British Museum<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSW2aClI5XD1-8ngHdA3COcWb2Zbtw0TG486WBq6yRZ34qzHmP3WhzZHsnYYDxiqZiYNk-2hZ6lnhcHJX-cjzCnzErRZKBA817OWqcjR9F-8YK55o3y52Xxigta5-58wjx8UQ4U6nV1msu/s1600-h/BritishMuseumFront.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSW2aClI5XD1-8ngHdA3COcWb2Zbtw0TG486WBq6yRZ34qzHmP3WhzZHsnYYDxiqZiYNk-2hZ6lnhcHJX-cjzCnzErRZKBA817OWqcjR9F-8YK55o3y52Xxigta5-58wjx8UQ4U6nV1msu/s320/BritishMuseumFront.jpg" border="0" alt="British Museum"id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5387713350940956258" /></a><br /><span class="content">You could spend a day here and still come away wishing you had seen more! Despite the name, this isn’t a museum about Britain – the collections include artefacts from all over the world (including controversially some that people feel should have stayed where they were, such as the Elgin Marbles from the Acropolis), and span 2 million years of history.<br /><br />Some highlights:<br />~ From Ancient Egypt (one of my favourite collections): statuary & decorated architecture, inscribed with hieroglyphs; coffins & mummies of individuals; furniture, fine jewellery & other burial goods.<br />~ From Imperial China: calligraphy, paintings & ceramics (and in 2008 there will be an exhibition featuring some of the Terracotta Army from Xian)<br /> ~ From Anglo-Saxon: one of the most impressive collections, the treasures from the ship burial at Sutton Hoo, Suffolk.<br />~ From the Aztecs: stone & ceramic sculptures; musical instruments such as drums, decorated with intricate carvings; rare turquoise mosaics.<br />~ From Iron Age Britain: one of the items that has fascinated me since I first saw it, Lindow Man. This is the body of a man discovered in August 1984 when workmen were cutting peat at Lindow Moss bog in NW England. The conditions in the peat bog meant that the man’s skin, hair and many of his internal organs are well preserved, and scientists have been able to do lots of research to learn about his life and death, concluding that he was probably the victim of a ritual sacrifice by druids.<br /><br />Admission is free, as it is to all the major museums in London. Open every day 10.00-17.30, and later on Thursdays and Fridays.<br /><br /></span><div class="bottomTip"><li><b>Phone:</b> 0 20 7323 8299</li><li><b>Directions:</b> Nearest tube is Holborn (Central & Piccadilly lines) – the museum is signposted from the station. It’s also an easy walk from Russell Square (Piccadilly line), Tottenham Court Road (Central line) & Goodge Street (Northern line)</li></div><br /><center><a target="_blank" href="http://www.hotelclub.net/enter.asp?id=66052&lc=&cr=USD&ru=searchresults%2Easp%3Fid%3D27"><font color="#F95C06"><h1>>BOOK HOTEL IN LONDON<</h1></font></a></center>Max Priestleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01796747184234443152noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4790094502042849515.post-49951898921176891092009-10-01T12:04:00.000-07:002009-10-01T12:14:50.033-07:00Houses of Parliament and Big Ben<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCYu-IBh5fIP18wcXljPwYJ9MygOWrxdR5Ft_bnP6i6AC8-xaeUFJ8P4q3eZV-rBOlVsy5NdsDoJ_pBDWj15qupG5StfxN-Z3tDtwmaffllwJ0eOXcAH-V9Ax1piNfa0APnrnDIoh9B6I-/s1600-h/F1010014+-+Houses+of+Parliament+%26+Big+Ben.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCYu-IBh5fIP18wcXljPwYJ9MygOWrxdR5Ft_bnP6i6AC8-xaeUFJ8P4q3eZV-rBOlVsy5NdsDoJ_pBDWj15qupG5StfxN-Z3tDtwmaffllwJ0eOXcAH-V9Ax1piNfa0APnrnDIoh9B6I-/s320/F1010014+-+Houses+of+Parliament+%26+Big+Ben.JPG" border="0" alt="Houses of Parliament and Big Ben"id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5387711846260534114" /></a><br /><span class="content">Charles Barry, born in London in 1795 and deceased in 1860, had a training as architect in Italy from 1817 till 1820. Because of this foreign influence, much of his early work was in the Italian Palazzo style. The story goes that on the night on the 16th of October in 1834, the old Palace of Westminster was destroyed by fire. Following on this devastating event, competition was launched in 1836 to create a new design. Charles Barry’s proposed one won. His design incorporated a clock tower. The dials were 30 feet in diameter; the struck on eight bells announced each quarter hour, the hours were struck on a 14-ton Bell.<br /><br />At the time the clock was designed it was the largest clock in the world.<br />Benjamin Lewis Vulliamy, a clockmaker with great reputation was contacted but under pressure of open competition, Sir George Airy got appointed to be referee and to make up the specifications of the clock to be. Three candidates occurred: Vulliamy, Dent and Whitehurst. Dent was awarded the contract in 1852. Was it favoritism of Airy? Who can tell.<br /><br />Edward John Dent died in 1853 and his stepson Frederick Rippon completed the clock mechanism. When it needed to be installed the tower was not finished yet due to miscommunications and problems between Edward Dent and the architect Barry.<br />But the lost time was spent well as the mechanism got enhanced and enabled to run even more accurate.<br /><br />But … still the tower was not finished yet. The hour bell, finished in 1856 was too heavy so the ball hammer was made heavier with the result that the bell got damaged behind repair when they hung it for the time being in the New Palace Yard.<br />At last it was in 1858 that George Mears of the Whitechapel Bell Foundry that provided the bell that still is in use today. Warners provided the four quarter bells.<br /><br /></span><div class="bottomTip"><li><b>Directions:</b> Underground: Westminster station</li></div><br /><center><a target="_blank" href="http://www.hotelclub.net/enter.asp?id=66052&lc=&cr=USD&ru=searchresults%2Easp%3Fid%3D27"><font color="#F95C06"><h1>>BOOK HOTEL IN LONDON<</h1></font></a></center>Max Priestleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01796747184234443152noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4790094502042849515.post-82267979047268948912009-09-30T17:38:00.000-07:002009-09-30T17:43:15.655-07:00Barceloneta / Beaches: an Old Fishermen District<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBoLucXBtUO8xyfxGBFfN_hvyULf35E6ANf4-XT_8Az3kbYnTGu2g2rfPX3kncIA6Rb5i77dgf82e8iopu2jBvbMeHpRfBoM-bUpIe5e6P2GtG7o5LSdMgvh7odmYBAtjymNrYMXS7MNWH/s1600-h/2425454-Barceloneta_Beaches-Barcelona.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBoLucXBtUO8xyfxGBFfN_hvyULf35E6ANf4-XT_8Az3kbYnTGu2g2rfPX3kncIA6Rb5i77dgf82e8iopu2jBvbMeHpRfBoM-bUpIe5e6P2GtG7o5LSdMgvh7odmYBAtjymNrYMXS7MNWH/s320/2425454-Barceloneta_Beaches-Barcelona.jpg" border="0" alt="Barceloneta / Beaches"id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5387425120698575970" /></a><br /><span class="content">After the Olympic Port I walked along the Passeig Maritim de la Barceloneta watching the beach of Barceloneta but when I passed the park de la Barceloneta I was surprised of this old fishermen district which is full of narrow streets. Since 1753 fishermen and workers were living here. First I started to walk along with no direction getting lost in the small streets having only the aroma of the sea as a guide. The beach was full of people and at Placa de la Barceloneta I saw the church Sant Miquel del Port. If you walk down to Torre Sant Sebastia you can take the teleferic that takes you up to Montjuic park. At Moll d’Espanya is the Aquarium of Barcelona, one of the biggest in the world with more than 11.000 creatures of the sea world. It is open 9.30-21.00 daily.<br /><br />Then I headed back towards the center so I passed from the museum of history of Catalunya that faces Marina Port Veil. There were a dozen of people outside at the café but the museum was empty. It is opened 10.00-19.00 (closed on Mondays) and you can see the history of the area from the ancient times till the medieval period and then at the third floor the modern era. The entrance fee is 4 euros. By the way Port veil has a walkway that will lead you to the Aquarium or the IMAX cinema.<br /><br />Finally, I visited the Monument of Columbus(Monument a Colom) at Placa del Portal de la Pau(Gate Of Peace) which is at the end of Las Ramblas. The monument (made by Gaieta Buigas in 1888) goes up to 60meters on an iron column with a stone base and obviously the statue (made by Rafael Arke) points to the sea but not towards America! At this site Columbus arrived in 1493 after his famous trip to America. He was born in Genoa but some local guides and books claim that he is from Catalonia! There is an elevator that goes to the top(daily 9.00-20.30) but I didn’t use it but I regret it because a good view of Las Ramblas as other travelers told me.<br /><br />A few steps west of the monument is the Maritime Museum (daily 10.00-20:00, entrance fee 6,50euro) that is located at Drassanes Reals, a nice gothic building that used to be the Royal Shipyards. What you can see here is a collection of ships, things from ships like maps etc and some nice dioramas and paintings. The model of Santa Maria de la Victoria is my personal favorite but probably because I have read so many things about it. Don’t miss Austria’s Lepanto Galera<br /><br /></span><div class="bottomTip"><li><b>Directions:</b> by metro get out at Barceloneta stop or Drassanes if you want to start from Columbus Monument</li> </div><br /><center><a target="_blank" href="http://www.hotelclub.net/enter.asp?id=66052&lc=&cr=USD&ru=searchresults%2Easp%3Fid%3D41"><font color="#F95C06"><h1>>BOOK HOTEL IN BARCELONA<</h1></font></a></center>Max Priestleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01796747184234443152noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4790094502042849515.post-67678449494130305742009-09-30T17:33:00.000-07:002009-09-30T17:36:32.994-07:00Casa Batlló, Barcelona<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhASCjfNZfULpBHVWL9Kv5pNhfrPYkRYqvnh87HzvwY-Jj3dg0GY9ohuGBlP3TrpyvkZgD7XlxY4jzgLbxAIqRev_q_ElrOQLFeUdrwGGhYSyXF8zC3-q9N6WTiR2EjnDOCKEL2L2zI-608/s1600-h/photo_2007_barcelona_casa_batllo6.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhASCjfNZfULpBHVWL9Kv5pNhfrPYkRYqvnh87HzvwY-Jj3dg0GY9ohuGBlP3TrpyvkZgD7XlxY4jzgLbxAIqRev_q_ElrOQLFeUdrwGGhYSyXF8zC3-q9N6WTiR2EjnDOCKEL2L2zI-608/s320/photo_2007_barcelona_casa_batllo6.JPG" border="0" alt="Casa Batlló"id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5387423600199626258" /></a><br /><span class="content">This project was commisioned by a wealthy textile producer Joseph Batllo who wanted his old house renovated - this was quite a challenge since the house was one in a row of similar houses with small atrium gardens. It would have been much easier and cheaper to build an entirely new house somewhere else , but the prestigious location was obviously worth the extra effort and problems they had with local authotrities after stepping forward on the public walkway with pillars bearing the facade.<br /><br />Gaudi worked on site just like on all his projects - he was designing and making alterations and finding new technical solutions during the process of building, with his hands on materials and tools. This caused extra costs, delays and problems with local authorities, but also resulted in some amazing visual and technical solutions .<br /><br />This house had won me over, it is everything I imagined Captain Nemo's home would look like. The shapes and textures resemble those of underwater creatures, vertebra shaped lower border of the staircase, jellyfish shaped doors, fish heads smiling from balconies, fish scales, skeleton supporting the attic ...<br />Please take a look into Casa Battlo Travelogue for more pictures.<br /><br /></span><div class="bottomTip"><li><b>Phone:</b> 93 488 06 66</li><li><b>Directions:</b> Take the metro to Passeig de Gracia, or bus 7, 16, 17, 22, 24, 28, 43 or 44.</li></div><br /><center><a target="_blank" href="http://www.hotelclub.net/enter.asp?id=66052&lc=&cr=USD&ru=searchresults%2Easp%3Fid%3D41"><font color="#F95C06"><h1>>BOOK HOTEL IN BARCELONA<</h1></font></a></center>Max Priestleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01796747184234443152noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4790094502042849515.post-36262815779681949162009-09-30T17:28:00.000-07:002009-09-30T17:30:14.643-07:00Cathedral La Seu<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQwRoCu9yjNa8oSXUS1whSacPW4zEyvNCX8Pp8fpELoM5Z_t54uH_y0DtimTgfBMdg-xWfGFTUrvOEdZ896ggyTKdqEm2fLq0l1rrymZjAqnHR6f6RdVZNlkjoip21dnjM43pAq5J9VBOT/s1600-h/3007899382_e9f1f9e6dc.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 238px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQwRoCu9yjNa8oSXUS1whSacPW4zEyvNCX8Pp8fpELoM5Z_t54uH_y0DtimTgfBMdg-xWfGFTUrvOEdZ896ggyTKdqEm2fLq0l1rrymZjAqnHR6f6RdVZNlkjoip21dnjM43pAq5J9VBOT/s320/3007899382_e9f1f9e6dc.jpg" border="0" alt="Cathedral La Seu"id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5387422206638563730" /></a><br /><span class="content">Enter the Catedral by the main entrance. You will soon find yourself engulfed in its glowing darkness and slightly scented air (from the numerous candles). Inside are several traditional but highly ornate chapels, beautifuly designed high-backed choir pews, carved lower-backed benches, an elegant retrochoir, and the magnificent tomb of Santa Eulàlia located in a crypt beneath the altar. The tomb of Santa Eulàlia is an important 14th century work of art, executed in alabaster or marble (I wasn't sure).<br /><br />Construction on this cathedral began in 1298. There is a main area consisting of 3 naves and an aspe with an ambulatory beneath an octoganal dome. Two 14th and 15th century towers rise at each end of the transept.<br /><br />You can take an elevator to the roof where you get specatcular views of Barcelona and a close up view at the cathedral towers and roof.<br />It very much worth the price to go up!<br /><br />Unfortunately, when we were there, the facade was undergoing some much needed rennovation. As such, you see this picture is not my best, but the best we had of the Catedral.<br /><br /></span><div class="bottomTip"><li><b>Phone:</b> 933151554</li><li><b>Directions:</b> Barri Gotic. Metro: Lines 1 and 3 (Catalunya Station) and Lines 2 and 4 (Urquinaona Station.)</li></div><br /><center><a target="_blank" href="http://www.hotelclub.net/enter.asp?id=66052&lc=&cr=USD&ru=searchresults%2Easp%3Fid%3D41"><font color="#F95C06"><h1>>BOOK HOTEL IN BARCELONA<</h1></font></a></center>Max Priestleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01796747184234443152noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4790094502042849515.post-49998245386127059902009-09-30T17:21:00.000-07:002009-09-30T17:26:23.248-07:00Barri Gotico<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKF2F-Tu1_E8KYvXEoz7K0bxKh0BbHv0XllVgc0Z0MyuhrwpqqMaXbooNP0unbUj55FYyjz0_AoK6PJklDBlEdWocHwLRAxU5DZw2R5y13ay-hGVazIS6j96F7tITQ8L0NqguiK8pCwoBp/s1600-h/074-DSC_8905_004_900+-+Barri+g%C3%B2tic+5.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKF2F-Tu1_E8KYvXEoz7K0bxKh0BbHv0XllVgc0Z0MyuhrwpqqMaXbooNP0unbUj55FYyjz0_AoK6PJklDBlEdWocHwLRAxU5DZw2R5y13ay-hGVazIS6j96F7tITQ8L0NqguiK8pCwoBp/s320/074-DSC_8905_004_900+-+Barri+g%C3%B2tic+5.jpg" border="0" alt="Barri Gotico: Barri Gotic"id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5387421133272629362" /></a><br /><span class="content">Take a step back in time to medieval europe. You really get a feel of what it must have been like, as you walk around the maze of twisting, narrow streets. You will come across Cathedrals, churches, town squares and excellent small shops and cafes.<br /><br />The highlights include the Catedral, Barcelona's great cathedral that dates back to the 14th century and has been constantly updated over the centuries with impressive additions such as the late 19th century facade. The square in front of the cathedral (placa de la seu) is certainly worth a stop for a coffee or tapas and sit and wonder at that facade.<br /><br />Along the beautiful C. del Bisbe Irurita you pass the entrance to the cathedral and end up in the magnificent square, Placa Sant Jaume, which is the historical and political heart of the city. There are 2 stunning buildings that face each other, the Ajuntament and the Palau de la Generalitat.<br /><br />As you travel west along C. de Ferran and down Ptge. Madoz you enter the beautiful Place Reial with its stunning architecture. There are several good restaurants and nightclubs here.<br />My advice, if I may, is to just find a street and continue to wind your way round. Each street seems to have it's own atmosphere and sights.<br /><br /></span><div class="bottomTip"><li><b>Directions:</b> Metro Line4 (yellow) Jaume I or Line3 (green) Liceu</li> </div><br /><center><a target="_blank" href="http://www.hotelclub.net/enter.asp?id=66052&lc=&cr=USD&ru=searchresults%2Easp%3Fid%3D41"><font color="#F95C06"><h1>>BOOK HOTEL IN BARCELONA<</h1></font></a></center>Max Priestleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01796747184234443152noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4790094502042849515.post-54053713388680283482009-09-30T17:16:00.000-07:002009-09-30T17:19:59.321-07:00Casa Mila - "La Pedrera"<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhm9phsPdcWV3i7XccAt-wGVIl6j3FcOnVpU26YEtWHHiE7Uech8aPlsMLmklcXgrGC1vtx-8qU9wjQ-f-qZ4zKe4HyE8wVjvI0TudSPdNwpWIIRu0u-2rSmHFi6jp-F-HbInmcXpv9Yc9h/s1600-h/Casa_mila_ag1.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhm9phsPdcWV3i7XccAt-wGVIl6j3FcOnVpU26YEtWHHiE7Uech8aPlsMLmklcXgrGC1vtx-8qU9wjQ-f-qZ4zKe4HyE8wVjvI0TudSPdNwpWIIRu0u-2rSmHFi6jp-F-HbInmcXpv9Yc9h/s320/Casa_mila_ag1.jpg" border="0" alt="Casa Mila"id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5387419487283457954" /></a><br /><span class="content"></span><span class="content">Can you become a fan of an architect? As you would of a sports person, film actor or pop star. Well if you can I'm now a fan of Antoni Gaudi. The Casa Mila is a building famous for not having a straight edge, but it's far from just being a novelty building.<br /><br />It has pride of place along the Passeig de Gracia, try not to get run over taking a photo of the outside. The perfect position for this photo from my camera was the middle lane of the street. Get a companion to keep an eye open for traffic - someone that likes you a lot helps.<br /><br />The building is made up of several floors. There is a floor recreating an apartment of a bourgeois family from the early part of the 20th century, another that is a permanent exhibition providing an insight into the historical and cultural life of Gaudi. The roof is an unmissable delight consisting of many artistic sculptures and great views of the city.<br />The entrance ticket includes all of these floors and the roof.<br /><br />Please see my travelogue for more pictures of Casa Mila.<br /><br />Best time to visit - Worth visiting both in daylight when the roof looks spectacular in the bright sunshine and at night when the building is beautifully lit.<br /> Opening hours - Daily 10 - 7.30. Closed Dec 25-26, Jan 1 and 6, and 2nd week in January.<br /><br /></span><div class="bottomTip"><li><b>Phone:</b> 93 484 5900</li><li><b>Directions:</b> Eixample district Metro 'FGC Diagonal/Provenca'</li> </div><br /><center><a target="_blank" href="http://www.hotelclub.net/enter.asp?id=66052&lc=&cr=USD&ru=searchresults%2Easp%3Fid%3D41"><font color="#F95C06"><h1>>BOOK HOTEL IN BARCELONA<</h1></font></a></center>Max Priestleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01796747184234443152noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4790094502042849515.post-11902119656864261132009-09-30T17:12:00.001-07:002009-09-30T17:14:08.023-07:00Las Ramblas: La Rambla, the busiest Avenue in Barcelona<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFG5l16xGxdOer9J0pRmy_UmlwdiiYpD-8XW9KfTVogqYyssauh-mk91hs5E6yUCoViPqhko7alDGDPTCJCzQy7NiRpNbJO-8kjAa9l9WvuIo2INz8p725FsprZoIPwK19M_u6WRQ4fTEK/s1600-h/23-barcelona-las-ramblas.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 239px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFG5l16xGxdOer9J0pRmy_UmlwdiiYpD-8XW9KfTVogqYyssauh-mk91hs5E6yUCoViPqhko7alDGDPTCJCzQy7NiRpNbJO-8kjAa9l9WvuIo2INz8p725FsprZoIPwK19M_u6WRQ4fTEK/s320/23-barcelona-las-ramblas.JPG" border="0" alt="Las Ramblas"id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5387417968847731570" /></a><br /><span class="content">I recommend that any trip to walk down La Rambla begin up at the northern end by the Plaça de Catalunya. From there you can embark on that flow of humanity down to the sea (no joke, it's crowded!). The best advice is to plunge in, go with the flow and enjoy the constant weird and wonderful activities taking place around you.<br /><br />Let yourself be carried past lottery ticket booths, shoe shiners, cheap pensions, human statues (performers), and people of all types. Let your senses be assailed by the squawking of caged birds, the perfumed air of the flower stalls, the chatter of the gossips and the shrieks of the fruit markets.<br /><br />There are a number of things to see both on La Rambla and off. So if you're really looking to get to know it, expect to spend some time there. La Rambla is broken down to the Rambla de Catalunya, Rambla de Canaletes (which by the way gets it's name from the Font de Canaletes), Rambla dels Estudis, Rambla de Sant Josep, Rambla dels Caputxins, Rambla de Santa Mònica., down to the Monument a Colom and the waterfront.<br /><br />Oh and please, please be aware of pickpockets. With such large groups of people, they inevitably prey on such a bountiful crowd. As should be a norm anywhere you go, being aware and strapping cameras and bags tightly to your body is usually enough to deter thieves.<br /><br /></span><div class="bottomTip"><li><b>Directions:</b> Find the Plaça de Catalunya on any map and it is the avenue heading south of it. Hard to miss.</li> </div><br /><center><a target="_blank" href="http://www.hotelclub.net/enter.asp?id=66052&lc=&cr=USD&ru=searchresults%2Easp%3Fid%3D41"><font color="#F95C06"><h1>>BOOK HOTEL IN BARCELONA<</h1></font></a></center>Max Priestleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01796747184234443152noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4790094502042849515.post-49197529229227695412009-09-30T17:05:00.000-07:002009-09-30T17:10:34.882-07:00Parc Guell, Barcelona<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCLZg3UkxYRWyHkNlq1gdXCdR4TagEHnhlzH60yJPbkRbZbrOY5h4Zzq-QTV3T3AY1V40Iok6PDnJmphdXe480fA74un-vPJfRVfoUmP6PP6d10Ij9qbhX4qh0B4Lfpel3KOayIqUFZ1zA/s1600-h/parc-guell.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCLZg3UkxYRWyHkNlq1gdXCdR4TagEHnhlzH60yJPbkRbZbrOY5h4Zzq-QTV3T3AY1V40Iok6PDnJmphdXe480fA74un-vPJfRVfoUmP6PP6d10Ij9qbhX4qh0B4Lfpel3KOayIqUFZ1zA/s320/parc-guell.jpg" border="0" alt="Parc Guell"id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5387417114050818978" /></a><br /><span class="content"></span><span class="content">One of the star attractions of Barcelona is the Parc Güell, the second most visited park after the Ciutadella. Probably only because of its location in the north of the city. The park owes its magnetic attraction to th fact that it was designed by Gaudí.<br /><br />In creating the park, Gaudí used shapes which harmonized with the landscape. Always aware of the struggle betwen man and nature, he built a complex garden of staircases, animalike sculptures, curvy ramps, and viaducts.<br /><br />Today, the park is declared a monument of world interest by UNESCO and has had this status since 1984.<br /><br />Lastly, expect a climb regardless of how you get to the park (well perhaps unless you drive). I think the best way to get there though was with the Bus Turístic. The Metro is a much longer walk away from the park. Admission to the park is free!<br /><br />See my travelogue on this park.<br /><br /></span><div class="bottomTip"><li><b>Phone:</b> +34 93 317 39 74</li><li><b>Directions:</b> Metro; line 3. Lesseps Station, then follow the street signs.</li></div><br /><center><a target="_blank" href="http://www.hotelclub.net/enter.asp?id=66052&lc=&cr=USD&ru=searchresults%2Easp%3Fid%3D41"><font color="#F95C06"><h1>>BOOK HOTEL IN BARCELONA<</h1></font></a></center>Max Priestleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01796747184234443152noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4790094502042849515.post-39530414406782095102009-09-27T14:40:00.000-07:002009-09-27T14:43:29.937-07:00Ponte di Rialto, Venice<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDCzoqswmIm-0ZdWKg7JRCtCc7rZMEyqk07PGSQBMursFNgwt1qxj5qdkBROYCpiF95xVQ6RxgG8GMPTOJxH2ka3-OocaF3oDAhUZFy_Mhj27BIHEVfOq-MniEOgEIxEmGwougoTxk-Uys/s1600-h/Venezia_-_Ponte_di_Rialto.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDCzoqswmIm-0ZdWKg7JRCtCc7rZMEyqk07PGSQBMursFNgwt1qxj5qdkBROYCpiF95xVQ6RxgG8GMPTOJxH2ka3-OocaF3oDAhUZFy_Mhj27BIHEVfOq-MniEOgEIxEmGwougoTxk-Uys/s320/Venezia_-_Ponte_di_Rialto.jpg" border="0" alt="Ponte di Rialto"id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5386265909095397250" /></a><br /><span class="content">Since I read that the Campanile opposite San Marco tumbled down on July 14, 1902, without any warning but without victims, I am somewhat suspicious about the resistance of Venetian monuments, being aware of the soil on which they are built.<br /><br />Consequently, before climbing the steps of the Rialto Bridge I gathered some information on the supposed strength of this bridge.<br />The previous bridge in wood collapsed in 1444 under the weight of a crowd watching a boat parade and it collapsed again in 1524.<br />The new stone bridge was build between 1588 and 1592 by the architect Antonio Da Ponte (a good name for building bridges).<br />The overall length is 48 m, width 22 m, the single arch has a width of 28 m and maximum height of 7,50 m in order to allow the Venetian galleys, among which the famous Bucentaure, nowadays the Vaporetto, to pass under the bridge.<br /><br />The engineering of the single span bridge was considered so audacious that another architect Vincenzo Scamozzi, competing to get the project for himself, predicted that the bridge would collapse.<br />So let's have a look at the engineering as the Rialto Bridge of A. Da Ponte is still standing and apparently presents no danger for the millions of tourists climbing her steps.<br />For each side of the arch 6000 "pali" piles of wood with lengths between 1 and 3,50 m were used for the foundations.<br />The balustrade of the bridge is made of "Pietra d'Istria" a quite resistant calcareous rock of bright white colour.<br />No doubt the Rialto Bridge is strong, nice and practical as wanted by the Venetian authorities of the 16th c.<br /><br /></span><div class="bottomTip"><li><b>Address:</b> Ponte di Rialto</li><li><b>Directions:</b> VAPORETTO: Ponte di Rialto Follow signs everywhere that direct you to Ponte di Rialto</li> </div><br /><center><a target="_blank" href="http://www.hotelclub.net/enter.asp?id=66052&lc=&cr=USD&ru=searchresults%2Easp%3Fid%3D258"><font color="#F95C06"><h1>>BOOK HOTEL IN VENICE<</h1></font></a></center>Max Priestleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01796747184234443152noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4790094502042849515.post-82466854927417460352009-09-27T14:34:00.000-07:002009-09-27T14:36:22.834-07:00Basilica di San Marco - Chiesa d'Oro<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgA8B5m3iCWaiKyPAjWdvBGd8N8b2G6T5F18rJuH_rSZeVw-LiNxAvUSrkvhQ9DddBDIChA_mJ_Kd-b1d6HD_NyQzowaRzznnJcIk-1MK3Gu0K4rNUL0xXAszKn8sDi2aNFvcp2UWoxcLRT/s1600-h/basilica_di_san_marco.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgA8B5m3iCWaiKyPAjWdvBGd8N8b2G6T5F18rJuH_rSZeVw-LiNxAvUSrkvhQ9DddBDIChA_mJ_Kd-b1d6HD_NyQzowaRzznnJcIk-1MK3Gu0K4rNUL0xXAszKn8sDi2aNFvcp2UWoxcLRT/s320/basilica_di_san_marco.jpg" border="0" alt="Basilica di San Marco"id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5386264170836246450" /></a><br /><span class="content">Piazza San Marco of course wouldn't be the Piazza San Marco without the Basilica di San Marco. Aptly known also as the Chiesa d'Oro (Church of Gold), it is one of the most richly embellished churches in the world. The basilica is topped with an enormous cupola that is surrounded by several other smaller ones. As with many of the other churches in Italy, the fascade of the church is decorated with marble. In addition to the marble, there are beautiful mosaics depicting scenes from the life of Christ and St. Mark.<br /><br />According to legend, St. Mark's body was smuggled out of Alexandria in A.D. 828 into Venice (hence, the name of St. Marks...Theodore, the Greek saint was patron saint of Venice up until this point).<br /><br />When inside the Basilica di San Marco, you must set your eyes onto the Pala d'Oro, a golden altar screen set with 300 emeralds, 300 sapphires, 400 garnets, 100 amethysts, and 1,300 pearls.<br /><br />Be aware that churches in Italy strictly enforce a modest dress code. No shorts, no bare shoulders or arms, and no skirts above the knees are permitted in the Basilica. Additionally, no pictures are permitted and silence must be observed.<br /><br />HOURS:<br />Basilica and Presbytery<br />Apr-Sept Mon-Sat 9:30am-5:30pm, Sun 2-5:30pm<br />Oct-Mar Mon-Sat 10am-4:30pm, Sun 2-4:30pm.<br /><br />Treasury Mon-Sat 9:30am-5pm; Sun 2-5pm.<br /><br />Marciano Museum Apr-Sept Mon-Sat 10am-5:30pm, Sun 2-4:30pm<br />Oct-Mar Mon-Sat 10am-4:30pm, Sun 2-4:30pm<br /><br />ADMISSION:<br />Basilica free<br />Treasury 2€<br />Presbytery 1.50€<br />Marciano Museum 1.50€<br /><br /></span><div class="bottomTip"><li><b>Directions:</b> VAPORETTO: San Marco</li> </div><br /><center><a target="_blank" href="http://www.hotelclub.net/enter.asp?id=66052&lc=&cr=USD&ru=searchresults%2Easp%3Fid%3D258"><font color="#F95C06"><h1>>BOOK HOTEL IN VENICE<</h1></font></a></center>Max Priestleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01796747184234443152noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4790094502042849515.post-65514336223394033012009-09-27T14:28:00.000-07:002009-09-27T14:31:38.125-07:00Canal Grande (and palazzi): Run on the Grand Canal<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkXUN3YO604sk5kBSXqZ6mv5eCUFY9woMIvCAIIbCf0UxxiftyYdwTwxDgISMk5V9uI_f-IVtHhH5yoo_E0jSER_lOxc0fprXBvi1XqHtidSThMClL90F8OwZ-mWUc80wagL0HeLCYYP1_/s1600-h/Venice+2.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkXUN3YO604sk5kBSXqZ6mv5eCUFY9woMIvCAIIbCf0UxxiftyYdwTwxDgISMk5V9uI_f-IVtHhH5yoo_E0jSER_lOxc0fprXBvi1XqHtidSThMClL90F8OwZ-mWUc80wagL0HeLCYYP1_/s320/Venice+2.JPG" border="0" alt="Canal Grande"id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5386262924555290914" /></a><br /><span class="content">The trip with the vaporetto on the Canal Grande belongs, as absolute must, to every Venice tour.<br />So, everyone can learn to know the city, from its best sides.<br />Magnificent palazzi lines the shore of Venice's famous water way, and the numerous stops offer the chance, to view in silence, the buildings, from the boat.<br /><br />The French former ambasador, Philippe Commines, writed in 1495 about the Grand Canal:<br />“It is the most beautiful street that one can find in the whole world; it is surrounded by the most beautiful houses, and goes through the whole city.” The Grand Canal is the main street of Venice, with a length of 3800 m, and a wideness of 30 m to 70 m.<br /><br />During the years, famous noble families ordered the construction of numerous palaces, which are, at the present, the pride of Venice. These edifices make part of the architectural history of the city. It is a pleasure and a great experience to admire the numerous palazzi and the church, placed on the shore of the Canale Grande, when you go by vaporetto, from Railway Station Santa Lucia, the beginning of the way, to the Laguna, the end of it.<br /><br />The first palace, Palazzo Diedo, is placed on the right side of the canal, in front of the Santa Lucia Station. Then, you can admire the wonderful church San Simeone Piccolo, built in the 18th century, on the right side, and the Chiesa degli Scalzi, across the street. The boat dives off under the Scalzi Bridge, the first bridge along the way, and then, you can see other marvellous buildings.<br /><br />Palazzo Flangini, built in the 17th century<br />San Geremia Church, existing since the middle of the 18th century<br />Palazzo Labia, at the present the seat of the RAI Television<br />San Marcuola Church<br />Fondaco dei Turchi, from the 13th century, today the seat of the Natur Museum<br />Deposito del Magio, the old grain storehaus from the 15th century<br />Palazzo Belloni-Batagia, built by Baldassare Longhena<br />Palazzo Vendramin-Calergi, actually Casino of Venice<br />San Stae Church with the tomb of the Doge Alvise Mocenigo<br />Ca’Pesaro, one of the bigest edifices in Venice<br />Palazzo Corner della Regina<br />Ca’ d’Oro, the most beautiful architectural juwelier of Venice<br />Palazzo Sagredo, built in Gothic Style<br />Pescheria, the Fishmar ket of the city, built in 1907<br />Fabbriche Nuove, built in the time period 1552-1555 by the Jacopo Sansovino<br />Fabriche Vechie<br />Ca’ da Mosto, from the 12th century<br />Palazzo dei Camerienghi<br />Fondaco dei Todeschi, at present the Main Post Office of the city<br />Then, the way goes under the famous Rialto Bridge, the most beautiful bridge over the canal and one of the landmarks of Venice.<br />Palazzo Dolfin Manin, built in the 16th century in Renaissance Style<br />Palazzo Bembo<br />Palazzo Dandolo<br />Palazzi Loredan<br />Palazzo Farsetti from 12th century, today the City Hall of the city<br />Palazzo Grimani, a Renaissance building<br />Palazzo Bernardo, built in Gothic Style<br />Palazzo Corner-Spinelli, built in 1500 by Mauro Coducci<br />Palazzo Mocenigo Nero<br />Palazzo Contarini delle Figure<br />Palazzo Balbi<br />Ca Foscari, today the main University building<br />Ca’ Giustinian, built in Gothic Style<br />Ca’ Rezzonico<br />Palazzo Loredan degli Ambasciatori<br />Palazzo Grassi<br />Accademia Museum, with many important art pieces<br />The vaporetto goes under the Accademia Bridge, the old wood bridge of the canal, and then, you can admire other important edifices.<br />The Palazzo Barbarigo with the famous mosaic façade<br />Palazzo Venier dei Leoni, an unfinished palace from 18th century<br />Corner Ca’ Grande Palace, built in 1537 by Jacopo Sansovino<br />Palazzo Dario, built in 1487<br />Palazzo Gritti, today the most famous luxury hotel of Venice<br />Palazzo Contani-Fasan, in Gothic style, called the house of Desdemona<br />Santa Maria della Salute, the famous church<br />Dogana da Mar, the old duty department of Venice is the last building on the right side of the canal.<br />The way finished in the Laguna of Venice.<br />These were only a small number of the palaces on the shore of the Canal Grande.<br />This water way in Venice is a wonderful experience for all the tourists, which come in the city. </span><br /><center><a target="_blank" href="http://www.hotelclub.net/enter.asp?id=66052&lc=&cr=USD&ru=searchresults%2Easp%3Fid%3D258"><font color="#F95C06"><h1>>BOOK HOTEL IN VENICE<</h1></font></a></center>Max Priestleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01796747184234443152noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4790094502042849515.post-18782011618294501862009-09-27T14:21:00.000-07:002009-09-27T14:26:03.730-07:00Churches: San Giorgio dei Greci<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhY9sGVlGD7f0ggPf67rmiW5pZQIPkYrOLTiUVradvTlxvskDSTbdxz7gw8zG3XHMheLFDYkxzHa_9qqeg6FNdc96CkoXHzz6pmsMLRcUjihX3Diw29nSFWLt1GcLEg4M1PTA4U1Eb-80J/s1600-h/Venice75.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhY9sGVlGD7f0ggPf67rmiW5pZQIPkYrOLTiUVradvTlxvskDSTbdxz7gw8zG3XHMheLFDYkxzHa_9qqeg6FNdc96CkoXHzz6pmsMLRcUjihX3Diw29nSFWLt1GcLEg4M1PTA4U1Eb-80J/s320/Venice75.jpg" border="0" alt="San Giorgio dei Greci"id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5386261465251184802" /></a><br /><span class="content">San Giorgio dei Greci is Greek Orthodox church and the only Orthodox church in Venice. After the fall of Constantinople in 1453, many Greeks found refuge in Venice. Their community became one of the largest and in 1526 they obtained permission to practice the orthodox rite and to acquire a piece of land in Castello area, where in 1536 they built the church designed by Sante Lombardo and Giovanni Antonio Chiona. The tall, slender facade of the church was designed by Baldassare Longhena. The bell tower was built between 1587 and 1617.<br /><br />The rectangular interior of this very fine Renaissance church is dominated by the marble iconostasis with decorated panels in Byzantine style.<br /><br />San Giorgio dei Greci is located in Castello area, sharp north from Santa Maria della Pieta church. It can be reached from Riva degli Schiavoni walking through Cale della Pieta, then turn left to Calle dietro la Pieta, then, just after a meter or two – right to Calle Bosello, then the first left to Calle della Madonna and, finally, before crossing the bridge – right. The church is in small yard by Rio dei Greci.<br /><br /></span><div class="bottomTip"><li><b>Directions:</b> San Giorgio dei Greci is sharp north from Santa Maria della Pieta church. It can be reached from Riva degli Schiavoni by walking through Cale della Pieta. The church is in small yard by Rio dei Greci.</li> </div><br /><center><a target="_blank" href="http://www.hotelclub.net/enter.asp?id=66052&lc=&cr=USD&ru=searchresults%2Easp%3Fid%3D258"><font color="#F95C06"><h1>>BOOK HOTEL IN VENICE<</h1></font></a></center>Max Priestleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01796747184234443152noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4790094502042849515.post-44595437991058846952009-09-27T10:26:00.000-07:002009-09-27T10:28:06.375-07:00Piazza Venezia - Vittoriano<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3212-KbWE-jCXER_kKbbg40wyJXZwZ-KKhCDtgJp0qtLWYdil5SWL5EjB2-RGKpKpb54f68WinFpbvpX09FmMy0syVhAvLKSfvu-EQOh4Y2wjLh-6PpT9k6J-v1DF0PNAECmxSRBKWvMX/s1600-h/piazza-venezia.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 205px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3212-KbWE-jCXER_kKbbg40wyJXZwZ-KKhCDtgJp0qtLWYdil5SWL5EjB2-RGKpKpb54f68WinFpbvpX09FmMy0syVhAvLKSfvu-EQOh4Y2wjLh-6PpT9k6J-v1DF0PNAECmxSRBKWvMX/s320/piazza-venezia.jpg" border="0" alt="Piazza Venezia"id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5386200116964087682" /></a><br /><span class="content">There are several accesses to the Vittoriano but best is to start by the gate at the front on Piazza Venezia. On left and right are the monumental fountains "Due Mari" of the two seas Adriatic and Tyrrhenian.<br /><br />Once you start climbing the stairs you will see on the sides the six statues representing the "I Valore degli Italiani" the Italian Values and in front of you the Altare Della Patria. A flame guarded by soldiers burns on this front terrace to mark the grave of an unknown soldier from WW I. Above it is the colossal equestrian statue of King Victor Emmanuel II.<br /><br />On the right side of the Altar of the Fatherland you can enter the building itself and climb by another monumental staircase to the Museum of the Risorgimento and to the terrace on the right and back side of the Vittoriano. From this terrace you can enter the church of Santa Maria in Aracoeli which is at the same level showing how the Vittoriano was built at the expense of the Capitoline hill.<br /><br />From here visitors have access to a glass lift installed in 2007 to take paying visitors (7 €) up to the very top the "Quadriga's" terrace. As there was a queue at the elevator I remained on this intermediate terrace where there is a self service cafeteria. From this (free) terrace one has already exceptional views on the Foro di Cesare, Foro and Mercato Traiano with the Torre delle Milizie in the back and on the right the Colosseum. This intermediate terrace with a cafeteria is really a good place to have a rest and unforgettable views on Rome.<br />One can also reach this terrace by the principal entrance to the Museo del Risorgimento (free entry) at Via di San Pietro in Carcere.<br /><br />I like to say that despite all the criticism about this monument, the Vittoriano attracts a large number of visitors because it is a fantastic view point over the city of Rome. Don't hesitate to climb the stairs. It seems that there are somewhere lifts inside the monument but I didn't see any.<br /><br /></span><div class="bottomTip"><li><b>Address:</b> In the Centre of the City of Rome</li><li><b>Directions:</b> Piazza Venezia is northwest of the Roman Forum</li> </div><br /><center><a target="_blank" href="http://www.hotelclub.net/enter.asp?id=66052&lc=&cr=USD&ru=searchresults%2Easp%3Fid%3D146"><font color="#F95C06"><h1>>BOOK HOTEL IN ROME<</h1></font></a></center>Max Priestleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01796747184234443152noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4790094502042849515.post-60714328020583466412009-09-27T10:15:00.000-07:002009-09-27T10:23:55.616-07:00St Peter's - San Pietro: Amazing and Enormous<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUUkIkOJyIuyI5pt59_VYogWhOSR2LmsJsXnK8O0dLYsDwvW4hh620XDGgfWt8C1NejgdWoJJcl92nBXhF-bbQGUeeBz1rsmlgoELxMTT18kwAuH3XNnuTL28yL5OfIrqrXJZAYTqU3xlX/s1600-h/rome-from-top-san-pietro-4.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUUkIkOJyIuyI5pt59_VYogWhOSR2LmsJsXnK8O0dLYsDwvW4hh620XDGgfWt8C1NejgdWoJJcl92nBXhF-bbQGUeeBz1rsmlgoELxMTT18kwAuH3XNnuTL28yL5OfIrqrXJZAYTqU3xlX/s320/rome-from-top-san-pietro-4.jpg" border="0" alt="San Pietro"id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5386198932056842722" /></a><br /><span class="content">We stopped for a really good pizza and cappuccino outside the Vatican museum before walking to San Pietro’s Basilica (St. Peter’s Basilica). As you enter the Piazza San Pietro it’s easy to imagine how it must be when thousands and thousands of worshipper’s gather to hear one of the Pope’s sermons, which he delivers from a balcony above. After a(nother) security check, we entered the church. It is really amazing - the altars, the ceiling, the stained glass windows – and it is enormous!<br /><br />We walked around for quite a while before getting on a very, very long line to make the climb to the top of the Basilica. It turned out that there was one very slow ticket man for hundreds and hundreds of people on line – in addition to one elevator that took about 10 people at a time up to the first level. After taking the elevator up the equivalent of 230 steps, we now had to climb 320 steps. The stairs were very narrow (claustrophobic!) and many portions wound around and around like in a lighthouse. Before the last part of the climb we reached a walkway around the top of the dome that was inside the church. It was pretty cool to look down on the people in the church who looked like ants! Fortunately we had a nice clear day and our reward for the long, hard climb was a spectacular view of Rome. The climb is a must do!<br /><br />Seeing the Pope: The easiest way to get tickets just days before the Wednesday General Audience with the Holy Father is to go to St. Peter's Square, find the Bronze Doors to the Apostolic Palace, and request them from the Swiss Guards.<br /><br />On Sundays at noon, the pope usually (if he's in town) appears at the second window from the right of the Apostolic Palace, to pray the Angelus and bless the crowd in the Square. Benedict XVI has continued this tradition, no ticket required.<br /><br />Hours:<br />Basilica (including the sacristy and treasury): Oct-Mar daily 7:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.; Apr-Sept daily 7:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m..<br /><br />Grottoes: Oct-March daily 7:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m., Apr-Sep daily 7:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.<br /><br />Dome Oct-Mar daily 8am-4:45pm; Apr-Sept daily 8am-6pm<br /><br />Cost:<br />Basilica (including grottoes) is free.<br />Stairs to the dome €4; elevator to the dome €5.<br />Treasury 4 €.<br /><br />Dress code: No bare shoulders or knees (for both men and women).<br /><br />Photography: Permitted throughout (except in special necropolis tour).<br /><br />All visitor information is correct as of this writing.<br /><br /></span><div class="bottomTip"><li><b>Address:</b> Piazza San Pietro, Vatican City</li><li><b>Phone:</b> 06-69881662</li></div><br /><center><a target="_blank" href="http://www.hotelclub.net/enter.asp?id=66052&lc=&cr=USD&ru=searchresults%2Easp%3Fid%3D146"><font color="#F95C06"><h1>>BOOK HOTEL IN ROME<</h1></font></a></center>Max Priestleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01796747184234443152noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4790094502042849515.post-4497027197022660502009-09-27T10:02:00.000-07:002009-09-27T10:06:39.566-07:00Piazza Navona - The Heart of the City<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJOatclCHw9FJK3eI83f5yFFNsX9jC4K06dnZuzTJIdQXP6Y7VV-P0Bir5jC8a0Hx0RhAPtjU85e3vnEtuL1sBv0OYHH3dzuAmJ1p2wh7OFhJCxpO8j5_bsasBWrzWg8n01Wcb5mS7Y8KS/s1600-h/piazza-navona1.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJOatclCHw9FJK3eI83f5yFFNsX9jC4K06dnZuzTJIdQXP6Y7VV-P0Bir5jC8a0Hx0RhAPtjU85e3vnEtuL1sBv0OYHH3dzuAmJ1p2wh7OFhJCxpO8j5_bsasBWrzWg8n01Wcb5mS7Y8KS/s320/piazza-navona1.jpg" border="0" alt="Piazza Navona"id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5386194674759016706" /></a><br /><span class="content">While Rome has many wonderful areas, perhaps the heart of the historical center is here, Piazza Navona. Night life until 2-3 in the morning - mimes, artists, beggers, restaurants, bars, famous ice cream, wonderful shops, musicians, a gorgeous church, and three fabulous fountains! Yes, maybe the food and drinks are overpriced - but sitting in the piazza watching the world go by is so lovely, how can you complain?<br /><br />If spending extra for the view and scene offends you, see my tip on the neaby but almost hidden restaurant LaFocaccia where you can spend less but eat well.<br /><br />The oval (but small) shape of the piazza follows the curves of the original stadium, built by Domitian. Originally called the Piazza "in Agone" for the contests he staged here ("agone" were classical Greek nude atheletic contests), the name was corrupted over the years from "in agone" to Navona.<br /><br />However, the name of the beautiful Church, St. Agnes in Agone, remained unchanged. It's still being restored, but is now open to visitors.<br /><br />Take a closer look at my photo of a detail of Bernini's Fountain of Four Rivers, which is in the center of the piazza. A bit of trivia with which you can amaze your friends (or not): the drain for the fountain is hidden in the mouth of the fish! Check it out for yourself.<br /><br /></span><div class="bottomTip"><li><b>Address:</b> Piazza Navona</li><li><b>Directions:</b> Rome Center</li> </div><br /><center><a target="_blank" href="http://www.hotelclub.net/enter.asp?id=66052&lc=&cr=USD&ru=searchresults%2Easp%3Fid%3D146"><font color="#F95C06"><h1>>BOOK HOTEL IN ROME<</h1></font></a></center>Max Priestleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01796747184234443152noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4790094502042849515.post-37206685041272133022009-09-27T09:54:00.000-07:002009-09-27T09:56:45.001-07:00Pantheon: Gift of the Gods - The Pantheon<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsQLh524vPD6QrBJFqzVFKYQM2YedyJ1Sq_lQv05M6Io0X3rfTKIMtAMFREInfTGSzoVl_JtpbVG5guoWON9R-wJui0IZ9HEdijDY62aQX8M-mubgMvUQ4tu_3BSwP1zWhNbHPilZAX7ic/s1600-h/pantheon_.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 216px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsQLh524vPD6QrBJFqzVFKYQM2YedyJ1Sq_lQv05M6Io0X3rfTKIMtAMFREInfTGSzoVl_JtpbVG5guoWON9R-wJui0IZ9HEdijDY62aQX8M-mubgMvUQ4tu_3BSwP1zWhNbHPilZAX7ic/s320/pantheon_.jpg" border="0" alt="Pantheon"id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5386191927972146578" /></a><br /><span class="content">The Pantheon, the temple to “all the gods,” was spared destruction because it was given to a religion with one god. Lucky for us.<br /><br />Indeed, today, the Pantheon still functions as a Roman Catholic church, with masses celebrated on Saturday evenings and Sunday mornings, just like any other local parish church in Rome. It is good to remember this when planning a visit. Although the building is usually open from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., when services are being held you should refrain from walking around (though you can stand near the entrance). Entry is free through the massive, bronze doors, said to be “original” but having undergone significant restorations.<br /><br />So many ironies, secrets, legends, art, politics, science, skill and history in one building.<br /><br />To begin in the middle, (you already knew it was built by Emperor Hadrian in 118 AD to replace an earlier temple destroyed by fire, right?) the temple was closed in the 5th century as Christianity grew in power. Sometime between 607-9, it was given to Pope Boniface IV for use as a church by Emperor Phocas (Eastern Roman Empire). It was rechristened Santa Maria ad Martyres (St. Mary of the Martyrs). Twenty-eight wagonloads of Christian martyrs bones were moved from their graves and buried under the Pantheon, and the Pope proclaimed All Saints Day, a commemoration of all the martyrs. The church calendar had been getting more and more crowded, with not enough room to celebrate a day in honor of each saint.<br /><br />Two years ago, the dirty and stained coffered ceiling underwent cleaning and restoration, resulting in this beautiful, pristine image of the oculus and the dark blue of an early evening sky. I've read that it used to be possible to write for permission to climb the dome from the outside, and look down, over the lip of the 9-meter wide (30 feet) oculus. Now THAT would be something!<br /><br /></span><div class="bottomTip"><li><b>Address:</b> Piazza della Rotonda</li><li><b>Directions:</b> In the middle of Rome's historical center, about a 5 minute walk east of Piazza Navona.</li> </div><br /><center><a target="_blank" href="http://www.hotelclub.net/enter.asp?id=66052&lc=&cr=USD&ru=searchresults%2Easp%3Fid%3D146"><font color="#F95C06"><h1>>BOOK HOTEL IN ROME<</h1></font></a></center>Max Priestleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01796747184234443152noreply@blogger.com0